November 22, 1988 - October 25, 2026

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Rachel Melissa Talpers. She was born November 22, 1988 and left us too soon on October 25, 2026 after a devastating battle with ALS. She touched so many people’s lives, loved deeply, and was an endless source of support.

From her birthplace in Wickenburg, AZ to her new home in Colorado, she got a taste for traveling at a young age. She went on to travel all around the world. Her travels included most of the 50 states, Spain, Iceland, Portugal, Belgium, and Sweden, just to name a few.

At just 37, she accomplished so many incredible goals. After graduating high school, she went on to earn double majors in English and Spanish from Knox College. Her passion for books led her into a wonderful career supporting local libraries, and she earned her master’s degree in library science from University of Denver. She worked at Highlands Ranch library for 14 years, specializing as a children’s librarian. Her days were spent leading storytimes and sharing the joy of reading with all the children and families that visited.

She leaves behind a lifetime of incredible memories to her parents, Nancy and Gary Talpers, her sister, Becca Talpers (Colt Hinman) and her beloved cat, Lady. She also leaves behind her enormous group of loving family and friends that will never forget the impact she had on their lives.

Please join us in celebrating her extraordinary life on January 9, 2027, 2:30 p.m. at Highlands Ranch Library: 9292 Ridgeline Blvd, Highlands Ranch, CO 80129. Rachel requested everyone wear colorful clothes, no black!

In lieu of flowers, please make donations to Rocky Mountain ALS or Dollywood Foundation.